Emergency Dispatcher

About Yellowhead County Emergency Dispatcher Role

Yellowhead County is seeking a dedicated Emergency Dispatcher to provide vital 911 call-taking and dispatch services. This full-time, permanent position is based in Edson, Alberta, and involves handling emergency communications for 911, fire, Peace Officer services, and afterhours support for Yellowhead County staff, partner municipalities, and contracted clients. The dispatcher operates under the supervision of the Dispatch Supervisor and must maintain professionalism and efficiency in a high-stress environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Answer all 911 and related emergency phone lines across multiple municipalities promptly and courteously.
• Collect and assess call information to gauge the nature and urgency of emergencies.
• Direct calls to correct agencies as needed.
• Dispatch fire resources appropriately, prioritizing multiple incidents and monitoring responder safety through radio communications.
• Support incident commanders by sending additional resources when required.
• Maintain accurate logs and incident reports, updating Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) and Records Management Systems (RMS).
• Perform administrative duties, keep the dispatch center organized and orderly.
• Manage Peace Officer dispatch duties including signing in/out officers, conducting safety radio checks, and processing complaint calls professionally.
• Oversee Working Alone Monitoring by signing employees in/out, conducting safety checks, and notifying supervisors in emergencies.
• Handle afterhours emergency calls, relaying information to on-call departments effectively.

Qualifications and Skills

• Minimum education requirement of Grade 12 or equivalent; post-secondary education in related fields is a plus.
• Preferred certifications include International Academies of Emergency Dispatch and Emergency Telecommunications certifications.
• Experience in emergency dispatch or call-taking is favored.
• Proficiency in basic office software and strong computer and typing skills.
• Familiarity with radio communication systems is advantageous.
• Valid Class 5 Alberta Driver’s License and Defensive Driving certificate.
• Current Standard First Aid and CPR certification.
• Strong organizational capabilities and meticulous attention to detail.
• Excellent verbal communication and ability to manage high-stress callers professionally.
• Adaptability, emotional control, teamwork, and reliability under limited supervision.

Work Environment and Conditions

• Indoor office setting requiring extended sitting and intense listening during calls.
• Shift work of 12 hours with potential for overtime.
• Limited opportunities for unscheduled breaks during shifts.
• Job demands rapid multitasking in a fluctuating, high-pressure setting, which can be mentally challenging.

Salary & Benefits

The role offers an annual salary between $64,649 and $80,165. Yellowhead County provides a comprehensive benefits package. The job posting remains open until a suitable candidate is found.

Additional Information

Applications must be submitted solely through the official Yellowhead County careers website. Resumes sent via other channels will not be accepted. Only candidates selected for further recruitment stages will be contacted by Human Resources.